As the wind industry continues to grow, so does the demand for skilled wind turbine maintenance and repair technicians.
Meet Justyna, a wind technician who has been a driving force as part of one of our project teams this season at GEV Wind Power.
Last month, we had the pleasure of connecting with Justyna who has been carrying out internal blade inspections in Sweden. In this blog post, we’ll be taking a look at her journey into the wind industry and her advice for others looking to follow a similar path.
Kickstarting A Career In Wind
After finishing high school with a focus on mathematics and physics, Justyna chose a hands-on career path as a Quality Controller and Warehouse Operator for a company producing and distributing glass and car parts. This was followed by a profession in industrial rope-access painting. It was during her eight years in rope-access that she first encountered wind turbine technicians, marking the starting point of a new exciting career in wind.
“During my time in rope access, I often met wind turbine blade repair technicians, who encouraged me to explore the wind industry and the rope access opportunities involved within wind technician roles” Justyna shared.
In 2023, she successfully completed her GWO Blade Repair course and all the accompanying industry training in preparation for a new career path into the wind sector and she hasn’t looked back since.
Facing Fears, Finding Confidence
Like many technicians, Justyna vividly remembers her first climb, her first use of ropes on the turbine, and her first repair tasks.
“Of course I was scared” she admitted. “I don’t know anyone who isn’t a bit nervous the first time on a project. You have to trust the ropes, your skills, and your team, but that trust grows quickly”.
Since that first climb, Justyna has worked on projects across Europe, gaining experience and confidence with every turbine.
Industry Challenges
There’s no denying that wind technician career roles remain a largely male-dominated field, with statistics shared by training provider; 3t Training Services (3t), showing approximately only 21% of the workforce in wider wind the industry consisting of female workers. However, Justyna shared that her experience has been refreshingly positive.
“I’ve never felt like I was treated differently. I’m simply a colleague and an equal part of the team.”
Still, she admits that being a woman comes with a few practical challenges. Her solution? To adapt and get creative.
“If a tool bag is too heavy to lift all at once, I start a bit earlier and load it in parts. That little bit of morning exercise helps me warm up!” she shared.
A Career Full of Adventure
Working as a wind turbine technician is a unique and fulfilling career path for those looking for adventure and a challenge.
For Justyna, working as a wind technician allows her to travel, meet new people, and see breathtaking places, all while doing something meaningful and contributing to the global renewable energy movement.
When asked what Justyna loves most about her work, she highlighted “No two days are ever the same. Even with the heavy workload, there’s always time to explore. Boredom just isn’t an option”.
Would she encourage other women to join the industry?
“Absolutely, yes” she added. “It’s challenging, rewarding, and full of opportunities. If you’re thinking about it, go for it!”
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Over recent years, GEV Wind Power has grown substantially, in terms of our representation across 30 different countries globally, and the number of technicians we deploy annually.
We recognise the value in having a diverse team of individuals with unique skills and experiences, and how collective insights can help bring new perspectives into the wind industry. As part of GEV’s ongoing initiatives such as the WindWOMEN campaign, GEV aims to continue highlighting real-world opportunities, give voices to those within the industry and celebrate the successes of those within our own teams.
Take a look at GEV Wind Power’s current vacancies here or follow us on LinkedIn to stay updated with the latest company and industry news.
